Jeff Loney, Bruce County’s Economic Development Manager has been announced as a recipient of the 2025 Economic Development 40 Under 40 Award, the biennial award recognizing rising stars under 40 years old in the economic development industry.“Economic development is a purpose-driven field that shapes communities worldwide, and young professionals are at the heart of that impact,” said Julie Curtin, president of DCI’s economic development practice. “These 40 rising stars are driving change through their innovation, commitment, and leadership. Their contributions are already making a difference, and I’m excited to see how they continue to shape the industry in the years to come.”
“As the economic development industry continues to evolve, these emerging leaders are rising to meet new challenges with expertise and innovation,” said Todd Jorgenson, managing director and principal of Jorgenson Pace, Inc. “Congratulations to this year’s 40 honorees—your leadership is making a lasting impact on both your communities and the industry at large.
“We are incredibly proud of Jeff’s accomplishments as our Economic Development Manager.” said Luke Charbonneau, Warden of Bruce County. “This award recognizes Jeff’s dedication to the field of economic development, and Bruce County. Through his work stewarding Bruce County’s Economic Development Strategic Plan Jeff has profiled our County on both a North American and International Stage.
Jeff Loney is dedicated and forward-thinking with over a decade of experience in municipal economic development. As Bruce County’s Economic Development Manager, he plays a pivotal role in driving strategic initiatives that foster growth, innovation, and investment. This has included work to attract the medical isotope supply chain to Bruce County, attraction of agri-food processing businesses, and the recent launch of Energy Transitions Initiative.
Before joining Bruce County in 2022, Loney served as the Manager of Economic Development, Marketing, and Tourism for the Town of Gravenhurst. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Local Government from Western University, as well as an Economic Development Certificate from the University of Waterloo. He also serves on the Economic Developers Council of Ontario’s Board of Directors.
The awards program is hosted by Development Counsellors International (DCI), a New York-based integrated marketing firm that works with economic development and travel organizations around the globe, and Jorgenson Pace, Inc, a leading national executive search firm serving organizations in non-profit, economic and community development industries. An independent selection committee of six economic development leaders and site selection consultants evaluated nominations based on the demonstration of strong leadership, commitment and innovation every day in the workplace. For more information on the 40 Under 40 awards program and this year’s winners, visit https://aboutdci.com/insights/40-under-40/.
